HOPKINS COUNTY, Ky. (12/9/13) — A Hopkins County author has released her newest book, “Secrets of the Asylum,” set in the historic Western State Hospital in Hopkinsville.

A fictional work, the book revolves around the character Jane Braxton as she uncovers the mystery of her birth only to discover a past she wishes she'd left alone.

Lisa Piper has authored nine fiction and non-fiction historical works. Her newest book is second in the Kentucky Treasure Series, which is a collection set in historic time periods in Kentucky.

“I have tried to write about some of the most fascinating facts concerning the history of Western State Hospital including the hidden tunnel, the cemetery and what looks like the 'dome' area that is blocked off and no longer accessible to most employees,” said Piper. “The novel is fiction but what will be interesting to the reader is what could happen, and that the story was inspired by real life.”

Piper said she did not use actual names of real people in the novel out of respect for former patients and families. She also tried to honor those, who have dedicated their lives to caring for those in need, she said.

The book signing will be 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14 at ReadMore Book-N-Card in Madison Square Mall in Madisonville.